InfoSAWIT, TARAKAN – The North Kalimantan (Kaltara) Provincial Government is advancing concrete plans to establish self-sufficiency in the cooking oil industry. Governor Dr. H. Zainal A. Paliwang chaired a coordination meeting on Tuesday, September 30, to solidify plans for the factory’s formation.

The meeting, which included the Acting Director-General of Plantations, owners of local Palm Oil Mills (PKS), farmer associations, and government representatives, focused on securing the project’s future.

“God willing, we will build this cooking oil factory in Kaltara. It will not only meet the needs of our community but also allow for expansion into the wider Borneo region,” Governor Zainal stated.

The Governor stressed that the factory's success is dependent on the consistent and sustainable raw material supply from the 20 PKS operating in Kaltara. He called for robust support from all mill owners.

He also highlighted the critical need to organize plasma farmers (smallholders partnered with mills) to strengthen their collective voice and secure their role in the palm oil ecosystem, citing successful models in other provinces.

The factory's development is expected to yield significant local benefits, including curbing inflation, stabilizing staple food prices, and creating new jobs, thereby reinforcing regional food security and economic growth. (T2)